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Expandable Input
Design Pattern

Problem summary

The user wants to experience a main interface with as much screen real estate and with a minimum of distractions

Example

▲ Twitter.com has placed big input area, attracting important attention - with an input hint, at the top of the screen. As you click the input field, it expands - saving valuable above-the-fold screen space for content.

Usage

Use when you want the main focus to be on the main interface rather than its input controls

Use when you want to keep distractions out of the main interface

This card is part of the UI Patterns printed card deck

A collection of 60 User Interface design patterns, presented in a manner easily referenced and used as a brainstorming tool.

Solution

Expand the size of input fields as they come in focus or are filled with content

Design your controls in two modes: expanded and contracted. As the user taps a contracted control, it expands to its larger size. This can help keeping secondary functions out of the way until the user is in need of them.

Rationale

Expandable inputs can help unclutter user interfaces by staying out of sight until needed. For multiple purpose user interfaces, it can be helpful to let optional actions, such as searching, posting, or commenting, attract a minimum of attention.